Chelsea 'admit defeat in Andreas Christensen talks'

Chelsea have reportedly admitted defeat in their efforts to retain the services of defender Andreas Christensen.

The long-serving Denmark international has just four months remaining on his contract, putting him in a position to hold discussions with foreign clubs.

As it stands, a free transfer to either of the likes of Barcelona or Bayern Munich has not been finalised, giving Chelsea hope that they may finally be able to make progress in negotiations with the 25-year-old.

However, according to reports in Spain, the European and world champions have already accepted that Christensen will be taking on a new challenge at the end of the season.

Christensen has made a total of 153 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, 25 of which have come during the current campaign.

The report adds that Barcelona are increasingly likely to win the race for the centre-back.